Business Grants and Resources for Single Mothers in New Mexico

Business Startup, Small Business & Entrepreneurship Assistance and Grants for Single Mothers in New Mexico

Last updated: September 2025

Emergency help that you can use today

If you need a fast human to talk to about funding or next steps: Call the U.S. Small Business Administration New Mexico District Office at 505-248-8225. They will point you to local lenders, free advisers, and upcoming funding briefings. (sba.gov)
If you want a free expert to help you land government contracts or certifications: Call the New Mexico APEX Accelerator at 505-224-5965 or email nmapex@sfcc.edu. Free one‑on‑one help with SAM.gov, WOSB/EDWOSB, HUBZone, DBE, and bid strategies. (nmapexaccelerator.org)
If you need a microloan to cover startup costs or a shortfall: Call WESST (Women’s Business Center) at 505-246-6900 for loans from $500-$ 50,000 (0–9% interest, up to 60 months) and free coaching. Or call DreamSpring at 1-800-508-7624 for loans from $1, 000-$ 250,000+ (and SBA Community Advantage up to $350,000). (wesst.org, dreamspring.org)
If child care costs are blocking you from working on your business: Apply for New Mexico Child Care Assistance (eligibility up to 400% FPL, copays currently waived). Call 1-800-832-1321 or apply online. Typical processing is within 10 working days after you submit all documents. (nmececd.org)
If your business is tech/R&D and you’ve won or are applying for SBIR/STTR: Apply for the NM SBIR Matching Grant (up to $100,000), and get free SBIR proposal help from Arrowhead Center’s NM FAST program. Email dderego@nmsu.edu or call 505-469-8411. (edd.newmexico.gov, innovations.unm.edu, arrowheadcenter.org)

Quick help box

Best first call: SBA New Mexico District Office at 505-248-8225 for a live navigator to lenders and advisers. (sba.gov)
Free one‑on‑one business coaching statewide: Find your nearest SBDC center (no‑cost advising) via the New Mexico SBDC Network. State office 800-281-7232; Santa Fe SBDC 505-428-1343; Albuquerque SBDC (CNM) 505-224-5250. (nmsbdc.org)
Microloan right now: WESST loans $500-$ 50,000 at 0–9% | DreamSpring loans $1, 000-$ 250,000+ and SBA Community Advantage $50, 000-$ 350,000. (wesst.org, dreamspring.org)
Women‑owned certification for federal contracts: Apply free through MySBA Certifications (WOSB/EDWOSB). Get help from APEX at 505-224-5965. (sba.gov, nmapexaccelerator.org)
Register your New Mexico LLC: File Articles of Organization online through the Secretary of State; the state filing fee is $50 by statute. Business Services help line 505-827-3600. (law.justia.com, sos.nm.gov)

Quick reference cheat sheet

Program or step	What it does	Amounts or key figures	Where to start
WESST Women’s Business Center + Loans	Coaching, classes, and microloans	Loans $500-$ 50,000, fixed 0–9%, up to 60 months	Call 505-246-6900; see business loan details
DreamSpring (CDFI lender)	Flexible loans and SBA options	Small business loans $1, 000-$ 250,000+; SBA Community Advantage $50, 000-$ 350,000; CRE $50, 000-$ 2,000,000	Call 1-800-508-7624; product pages
SBA Microloan	Up to $50,000; 7‑year max; typical 8–13%	Use for working capital, inventory, equipment	Find an SBA microlender near you
NM SBIR Matching Grant	State match for SBIR Phase I/II	Up to $100,000; FY26 window May 20–June 10, 2025	EDD SBIR Matching Grant page
NM S&T Business Startup Grant	Early‑stage tech commercialization	$25, 000-$ 50,000; FY26 window Aug 12–Sep 3, 2025	EDD S&T Startup Grant page
SSBCI Capital Access Program (NMFA)	Helps lenders say “yes” via reserve match	Loan amounts $10, 000-$ 1,500,000; terms up to 10 years; up to 14% reserve match (borrower+lender premiums matched by state)	NMFA SSBCI CAP page
APEX Accelerator (PTAC)	Free help winning government contracts	Certifications, bids, SAM, DSBS, teaming	Call 505-224-5965
NM Child Care Assistance	Pays most/all child care while you work or study	Eligibility up to 400% FPL; copays waived; typical decision within 10 working days	Call 1-800-832-1321 or apply online

Why this guide is different and what the top results miss

What we found when reviewing the top search results: Many pages list “grants” without hard numbers, deadlines, or verified contacts, and few connect funding to practical barriers like child care or local licensing. This guide fixes those gaps with specific dollar amounts, eligibility rules, current deadlines, state phone numbers, processing timelines, and plan‑B options for each path—backed by official New Mexico and federal sources published or updated through August–September 2025. (edd.newmexico.gov, sba.gov, nmececd.org)

New Mexico funding you can apply for first

State grants and tech commercialization

New Mexico SBIR Matching Grant: State dollars that match your federal SBIR/STTR award to cover commercialization costs not paid by your SBIR. Awards have been up to $100,000 for Phase II winners; FY26 applications ran May 20–June 10, 2025 (watch for next window each spring). Use it for IP, regulatory work, testing, and market development—not payroll or core R&D. Contact the EDD Technology & Innovation Office. (edd.newmexico.gov)
New Mexico Science & Technology Business Startup Grant: Competitive grants for early‑stage NM‑headquartered companies in advanced energy, advanced computing, biosciences, and aerospace. Typical awards $25, 000-$ 50,000, FY26 window Aug 12–Sep 3, 2025. Covers IP, validations, certifications, market research, and limited travel. Not for payroll or equipment purchases. (edd.newmexico.gov)
EDD innovation ecosystem grants (for organizations): In August 2025, EDD opened $5 million for Innovation Hubs and Entrepreneurship Programmatic Support (incubators/accelerators). Single moms can’t apply directly, but your incubator or community partner may get resources you can use—ask local hubs if they’re applying. (edd.newmexico.gov)
Watch the state’s quantum initiative: New Mexico announced $315 million for a quantum computing push, including funds that could flow through labs, venture studios, and hubs. Track EDD press releases to catch entrepreneur‑facing opportunities as they open. (reuters.com)

How to apply fast: For SBIR/STTR companies, email NM FAST (dderego@nmsu.edu) or call 505-469-8411 to pre‑screen your concept and get proposal or matching‑grant help. NM FAST is an SBA‑funded program at NMSU’s Arrowhead Center with office hours and an accelerator pathway. (arrowheadcenter.org, arrowheadcenter.nmsu.edu)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your SBDC adviser to review fit for federal SBIR agencies and connect you to university tech transfer offices and national lab partnering desks. You can also apply to the RDC Micro‑Grant Fund (Northern NM) for up to $3,000 toward critical purchases if you’re in Los Alamos, Mora, Rio Arriba, San Miguel, Northern Sandoval, Santa Fe, or Taos counties. Check next cycle dates; the 2025 window closed June 30, 2025. (rdcnm.org)

Loans and credit that work for startups (even with thin credit)

Community lenders and SBA options

WESST (Women’s Business Center lender): Loans $500-$ 50,000, fixed 0–9%, up to 60 months, plus classes and one‑on‑one help. Great for home‑based and microbusiness startups. Call 505-246-6900. (wesst.org)
DreamSpring (CDFI): Flexible underwriting and products from $1, 000-$ 250,000+, SBA Community Advantage $50, 000-$ 350,000, and commercial real estate $50, 000-$ 2,000,000. Accepts SSN or ITIN. Call 1-800-508-7624. (dreamspring.org)
The Loan Fund (CDFI): Loans $5, 000-$ 1,000,000; recent board minutes indicate borrower rates often around 6.0–7.5%; also provides pre‑ and post‑loan technical assistance. Start at the website to connect with a lender. (loanfund.org, nmsbic.org)
SBA Microloan (via approved nonprofits): Up to $50,000, maximum 7‑year term, typical interest 8–13%. Funds working capital, inventory, supplies, furniture, and equipment (not real estate or refinancing). (sba.gov)
SBA 7(a) loans: Up to $5, 000, 000 * * . SB A gu a r an t ees g e n er a ll y u pt o * * 85$ 150,000 and 75% for larger loans (different for export programs). (sba.gov)
SBA 504 loans: Long‑term fixed‑rate financing for major assets; up to $5.5 million; 10/20/25‑year terms via a CDC partner. (sba.gov)
New Mexico SSBCI programs (NM Finance Authority):
- Capital Access Program builds a loan‑loss reserve (borrower + lender premiums up to 7% matched by state to reach up to 14%) to help banks approve your loan. Loans from $10, 000-$ 1,500,000; terms up to 10 years.
- Loan Participation Program lets NMFA purchase a portion or make a companion loan to reduce lender risk. Start by asking your bank or emailing business@nmfa.net (505-984-1454). (nmfinance.com)
NMSBIC capital (indirect): The New Mexico Small Business Investment Corporation provides over $120 million in capital to nonprofit lenders (The Loan Fund, DreamSpring, WESST, and others), which then lend to small businesses statewide—over 7,200 loans to date. If a bank says no, ask whether NMSBIC funds are available through your CDFI. (nmsbic.org)

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

Missing documents: Lenders will ask for ID, tax returns, and recent bank statements. DreamSpring lists exactly what to prepare by loan size; use their checklist before you apply. (help.dreamspring.org)
Applying for the wrong loan: If you need < $50,000 and fast, an SBA Microloan via WESST or DreamSpring is often quicker than 7(a). (sba.gov)
Underestimating total costs: Add gross receipts tax, license fees, insurance, deposits, and initial inventory to your startup budget. Use the TRD GRT Rate Finder to set your pricing correctly by location. (tax.newmexico.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Meet with your local SBDC and WESST to fix gaps (cash flow, credit, plan). Ask a lender to consider SSBCI support, or apply to The Loan Fund if a bank or credit union declines. (nmsbdc.org, loanfund.org)

Government contracts and certifications that favor women‑owned firms

Women‑Owned Small Business (WOSB/EDWOSB) Certification: Federal goal is 5% of contract dollars to WOSBs. Apply free in MySBA Certifications; EDWOSB financial thresholds (e.g., personal net worth under $850, 000 * *, in co m e u n d er * *$ 400,000 averaged three years, assets under $6.5 million, excluding retirement accounts) apply for EDWOSB. For help, call APEX at 505-224-5965. (sba.gov, nmapexaccelerator.org)
HUBZone: If your principal office and 35% of employees live in a HUBZone census tract, you may qualify for set‑asides and a 10% price preference in full and open competition. Check your address on the HUBZone map and get weekly office hours. (sba.gov, maps.certify.sba.gov)
DBE (Disadvantaged Business Enterprise) for transportation projects: Certify with NMDOT to compete on USDOT‑funded highway, transit, and airport work. DBE Certification Officer: 505-670-3294. Albuquerque’s transit agency also runs a DBE program (goal 4.5% through FFY 2025). (dot.nm.gov, cabq.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask APEX to review your SAM, DSBS profile, and a one‑page capability statement. They’ll also flag HUBZone or DBE eligibility you might be missing. (nmapexaccelerator.org)

Set up your business legally and avoid fines

Register your LLC: File Articles of Organization with the NM Secretary of State (online only). The state fee is $50 by law (NMSA §53‑19‑63). Business Services can help at 505-827-3600. Online filings run through the state’s Enterprise portal. (law.justia.com, sos.nm.gov)
Get your local license:
- Albuquerque: As of July 1, 2025, the city moved from registration to licensing. Annual business license fee $35** per location, plus Fire & Life Safety inspection fee (**$ 35–$400 based on square footage). Apply online at the city portal. (cabq.gov)
- Las Cruces: Business registration typically $30-$ 40 per year; call 575-541-2287 or email Business@las-cruces.org. (lascruces.gov)
Gross Receipts Tax (GRT): New Mexico taxes most sales of goods and services. Rates vary by location and change periodically—use the official GRT Rate Finder by address to get the exact rate before you set pricing or invoice. Register and file through TAP. (tax.newmexico.gov)
State bid preferences you can use: Resident Business Preference gives an 8% evaluation credit on state RFPs; Resident Veteran Business Preference gives 10%. Apply through NM Taxation & Revenue; assistance line 505-231-6893. Not valid when federal funds are involved. (tax.newmexico.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your SBDC or WESST to walk you through entity choice, local zoning, and license steps. If you’re pursuing state contracting, get your Resident Business/Resident Veteran certificate through TRD first. (nmsbdc.org, tax.newmexico.gov)

Child care you can rely on while you build your business

Who qualifies: Families engaged in work, school, training, or active job search with income up to 400% of the Federal Poverty Level; assets under $1 million. Copayments are currently waived; ECECD will give three months’ notice before any copays resume. (nmececd.org, law.cornell.edu)
How fast: Once your complete application is received, ECECD processes within 10 working days. Apply online, by email, or at a local field office. Call 1-800-832-1321 for help. (nmececd.org)
What to submit: Photo ID, proof of NM residency, verification of children’s birth, school/work schedule, and income docs (self‑employment or job). See ECECD’s document library for the latest forms. (nmececd.org)

Reality check: Approval is not instant. Submit a complete packet and keep copies. If you’re self‑employed, save invoices and deposits to verify income. (nmececd.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your provider about a temporary sliding‑scale or scholarship while your case is pending, and alert ECECD if you get a job offer or need quicker start. If denied, call your SBDC to revisit your work plan and resubmit with stronger documentation. (nmececd.org)

Tables to compare your options

Funding at a glance for New Mexico single‑mother entrepreneurs

Option	Typical amounts	Good for	Speed/notes
WESST microloan	$500-$ 50,000 at 0–9%	Startup and micro needs	Often faster than bank loans; includes coaching (wesst.org)
DreamSpring loan	$1, 000-$ 250,000+	Growth or bigger startup	Flexible; accepts ITIN; multiple products (dreamspring.org)
SBA Microloan	Up to $50,000, 7 years, 8–13%	Working capital, equipment	Intermediary decides; prep docs early (sba.gov)
NM SBIR Match	Up to $100,000	SBIR‑funded firms	Spring window; commercialization costs (edd.newmexico.gov)
S&T Startup Grant	$25, 000-$ 50,000	Early tech commercialization	FY26: Aug 12–Sep 3, 2025 (edd.newmexico.gov)
NMFA SSBCI CAP	$10, 000-$ 1,500,000	Bank loans needing backup	Reserve match up to 14% (nmfinance.com)

State grants and commercialization support

Program	Covers	Excludes	Where to apply
NM SBIR Matching	IP, regulatory, testing, market research	Payroll, core R&D, equipment	EDD SBIR Matching Grant (edd.newmexico.gov)
S&T Business Startup	IP, validation, certifications, limited travel	Payroll, R&D, big equipment	EDD TIO Startup Grant (edd.newmexico.gov)
NM FAST (free)	SBIR coaching, budget, registration	N/A (free TA)	Arrowhead Center NM FAST (arrowheadcenter.nmsu.edu)

Top community lenders and partners

Lender/partner	Loan range	Notes
WESST	$500-$ 50,000 at 0–9%, ≤60 months	SBA Microlender; also training and consulting (wesst.org)
DreamSpring	$1, 000-$ 250,000+; SBA CA $50, 000-$ 350,000; CRE $50, 000-$ 2,000,000	Accepts SSN or ITIN; statewide
The Loan Fund	$5, 000-$ 1,000,000	Rates often 6.0–7.5%; TA included
NMSBIC	N/A (funds lenders)	$120M+ committed; 7,200+ loans statewide

Registration, licensing, and taxes—quick figures

Step	Cost or range	Source
NM LLC Articles filing fee	$50	NMSA §53‑19‑63 (law.justia.com)
Albuquerque business license	*$35 * + F i re in s p ec t i o n * $ 35–$400* (by size)	City Planning FAQs/Ordinance (cabq.gov)
Las Cruces business registration	$30-$ 40	City of Las Cruces Business Support Services (lascruces.gov)
Gross Receipts Tax	Use official Rate Finder	TRD GRT Rate Map/Overview (tax.newmexico.gov)

Child care assistance—business‑builder support

Item	Current detail
Eligibility income	Up to 400% of FPL; assets under $1,000,000
Copays	Waived; 3‑month notice before reinstatement
Processing time	Decision within 10 working days after complete packet
Apply	Call 1-800-832-1321, online application available

Local organizations, incubators, and practical contacts

WESST Women’s Business Centers (statewide): Albuquerque 505-246-6900; Rio Rancho 505-892-1238; Las Cruces 575-541-1583; Santa Fe 505-474-6556; Hobbs 575-624-9850; Farmington 505-566-3715. Services include coaching, classes, and lending. (wesst.org, clients.wesst.org)
New Mexico SBDC Network: State office 800-281-7232 (Santa Fe campus). Local centers include Santa Fe SBDC 505-428-1343 and Albuquerque SBDC (CNM) 505-224-5250. Free, confidential advising. (nmsbdc.org)
APEX Accelerator (PTAC): Government contracting help; main line 505-224-5965; regional advisers statewide (including Clovis 575-769-4135, Las Cruces 575-644-9753). (nmapexaccelerator.org)
Arrowhead Center at NMSU—NM FAST: SBIR/STTR proposal development, office hours, and accelerator; contact 505-469-8411. (arrowheadcenter.org)
MBDA Business Center (Albuquerque): City‑operated minority business support; connect via partners if capacity is limited (Black Chamber 505-340-2773, Hispano Chamber 505-842-9003). (nmmbda.com)
Regional Development Corporation (Northern NM): Micro‑Grant Fund up to $3,000; tribal grant and no‑interest programs cycle annually. (rdcnm.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your SBDC/WESST adviser for a warm referral to the right contact. Most programs prioritize rural and underserved founders and will slot you into the next info session or office hours. (nmsbdc.org)

Resources by region

Albuquerque metro: WESST Albuquerque 505-246-6900; SBA NM District 505-248-8225; APEX (Albuquerque) 505-224-5965; City Business Licensing online (license $35 + fire fee). (wesst.org, sba.gov, nmapexaccelerator.org, cabq.gov)
Santa Fe and Northern NM: WESST Santa Fe 505-474-6556; Santa Fe SBDC 505-428-1343; Regional Development Corporation (micro‑grants up to $3,000). (wesst.org, nmsbdc.org, rdcnm.org)
Las Cruces and Southern NM: WESST Las Cruces 575-541-1583; local registration $30-$ 40; APEX adviser 575-644-9753 at NMSU Genesis. (wesst.org, lascruces.gov, nmapexaccelerator.org)
Four Corners/Northwest: WESST Farmington 505-566-3715; APEX help via Albuquerque line 505-224-5965. (clients.wesst.org, nmapexaccelerator.org)
Eastern NM/Clovis‑Portales: APEX Clovis 575-769-4135; SBDC centers via NMSBDC. (nmapexaccelerator.org)

Application checklist

Business basics:
- Proof of identity and address.
- Business plan (one‑pager is fine) with startup costs and 12‑month cash flow.
- Startup budget including GRT, license fees, deposits, insurance. Use TRD’s GRT Rate Finder. (tax.newmexico.gov)
Loan readiness:
- Last personal tax return, and the last 3 months of personal and business bank statements.
- For larger loans, be ready with 2–3 years of tax returns, financial statements, and a personal financial statement (see DreamSpring’s document list by loan size). (help.dreamspring.org)
Grant readiness (tech):
- SBIR/STTR abstract, budget, letters of support, IP plan.
- State match use plan (non‑R&D expenses) for NM SBIR Match. (edd.newmexico.gov)
Compliance:
- LLC filing (state fee $50 * *) an d l oc a ll i ce n se (A BQ * *$ 35 + inspection fee; Las Cruces $30-$ 40).
- SAM.gov and DSBS set‑up if you’ll pursue contracts; WOSB/EDWOSB via MySBA. (law.justia.com, cabq.gov, lascruces.gov, sba.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid

Using personal accounts for business: Open a separate business bank account before you apply for a loan or grant.
Quoting prices without adding GRT: Always add the correct GRT for your delivery location; use the TRD Rate Finder. (tax.newmexico.gov)
Waiting to find child care: Apply for child care assistance now; approvals can take up to 10 working days and documents must be complete. (nmececd.org)
Missing state bid preferences: If you sell to state/local government, grab the 8% Resident Business or 10% Resident Veteran preference—simple application through TRD. (tax.newmexico.gov)

Diverse Communities in New Mexico

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask WESST for LGBTQ‑friendly mentors and evening classes; APEX will advise on inclusive contracting language and teaming. Phone 505-246-6900 and 505-224-5965. (wesst.org, nmapexaccelerator.org)
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Use lenders that accept flexible documentation (WESST, DreamSpring). For contracts with accessibility requirements, APEX can help you meet federal standards. DreamSpring customer support 1-800-508-7624. (help.dreamspring.org)
Veteran single mothers: Apply for the 10% Resident Veteran Business Preference for state RFPs and explore SBA’s veteran resources; APEX can prep federal bids. TRD preference help 505-231-6893. (tax.newmexico.gov)
Immigrant/refugee single moms (including ITIN filers): DreamSpring accepts SSN or ITIN; WESST offers classes in Spanish statewide. Phones 1-800-508-7624 and 505-246-6900. (dreamspring.org, wesst.org)
Tribal citizens and businesses on tribal land: Check eligibility for DBE certification and NMDOT’s free STAR training program; call 505-670-3294 for DBE help. RDC also runs a tribal grant fund in Northern NM (watch annual cycles). (dot.nm.gov, leaflet.transportation.org, rdcnm.org)
Rural single moms: SSBCI supports rural lending through credit enhancement; ask your local bank to contact NMFA (business@nmfa.net, 505-984-1454). WESST and SBDC offer virtual advising and rural cohorts. (nmfinance.com)
Single fathers: All services listed here are gender‑inclusive; WESST and SBDC serve anyone starting or growing a small business. (nmsbdc.org)
Language access: WESST and several SSBCI TA workshops run in Spanish; APEX and SBA provide interpretation for events with advance request. (edd.newmexico.gov)

Plan‑B options after each main path

If you can’t qualify for a bank loan: Try CDFIs (WESST, DreamSpring, The Loan Fund) or ask your bank to enroll your loan in SSBCI CAP/Loan Participation. (nmfinance.com)
If your grant is not funded: Apply for the next RDC Micro‑Grant cycle (up to $3,000 in Northern NM) and ask NM FAST to review your SBIR package for resubmission. (rdcnm.org, arrowheadcenter.nmsu.edu)
If certifications feel overwhelming: Book APEX one‑on‑one to complete WOSB or HUBZone step‑by‑step; they’ll build your DSBS profile and capability statement with you. (nmapexaccelerator.org)

Ten New Mexico‑specific FAQs

Q: **What small‑business loan can fund me fastest under $50, 000 * * * * ? * * A * * : SB A M i cro l o an s v iaW ESST orDre am Sp r in g o f t e nm o v e f a s t er t hanbank 7 (a) . M a x * *$ 50,000, up to 7 years, typical 8–13%. (sba.gov)
Q: What are the current S&T Startup grant amounts and dates**?
A: $25, 000-$ 50,000; FY26 window Aug 12–Sep 3, 2025. (edd.newmexico.gov)
Q: How much can the NM SBIR Match cover**?
A: Up to $100,000 for Phase II (smaller for Phase I); covers commercialization costs not allowed under SBIR. Check EDD’s annual manual. (innovations.unm.edu, edd.newmexico.gov)
Q: Where can I find lenders who will work with new businesses**?
A: WESST (505-246-6900), DreamSpring (1-800-508-7624), The Loan Fund (see website), and SBA Lender Match through SBA NM. (wesst.org, dreamspring.org, loanfund.org)
Q: Do I need to pay GRT if I’m a service business**?
A: Usually yes if the service is performed for a NM customer; check your location’s exact rate using TRD’s map. (tax.newmexico.gov)
Q: How much does it cost to form an LLC in NM**?
A: The state filing fee is $50 per NMSA §53‑19‑63. (law.justia.com)
Q: What does Albuquerque charge for a business license**?
A: $35** annually per location plus Fire & Life Safety inspection (**$ 35–$400 by size). (cabq.gov)
Q: Can I get a preference on state bids**?
A: Yes—8% Resident Business or 10% Resident Veteran preference through TRD; not valid if federal funds are used. (tax.newmexico.gov)
Q: Is there free help to get WOSB or HUBZone certification**?
A: Yes—New Mexico APEX Accelerator 505-224-5965. (nmapexaccelerator.org)
Q: How soon can child care assistance start for my work or classes**?
A: ECECD processes within 10 working days after a complete packet; providers are paid directly; copays currently waived. Call 1-800-832-1321. (nmececd.org)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from New Mexico Economic Development Department, New Mexico Finance Authority, New Mexico Taxation & Revenue Department, New Mexico Secretary of State, U.S. Small Business Administration, and established nonprofits and CDFIs serving New Mexico.

Editorial standards: Our methodology, verification steps, update cycles, and accuracy commitments are explained in our Editorial Policy. Read it here. (edd.newmexico.gov)

Last verified: September 2025
Next review: April 2026
Corrections or updates: Email info@asinglemother.org and we will respond within 48 hours.

Disclaimer

Important: Program rules, amounts, deadlines, and contacts change. Always verify on the official website or with the agency contact listed here before you apply or spend money.

No legal or tax advice: This guide is for general information. For legal, tax, or accounting decisions, consult a licensed professional or the agency listed.

Security: Only use official portals linked here (for example, sba.gov, tax.newmexico.gov, edd.newmexico.gov, nmfinance.com, and sos.nm.gov). If a site asks for sensitive info and looks suspicious, stop and contact the agency at the phone number listed above.

Sources cited and dated

EDD S&T Business Startup Grant FY26 (window Aug 12–Sep 3, 2025, amounts $25, 000-$ 50,000) and EDD SBIR Matching Grant (FY26 window May 20–June 10, 2025). (edd.newmexico.gov)
WESST loans ( $500-$ 50,000, 0–9%) and statewide WBC contacts. (wesst.org)
DreamSpring products ( $1, 000-$ 250,000+, Community Advantage $50, 000-$ 350,000, CRE $50, 000-$ 2,000,000) and customer service number. (dreamspring.org, help.dreamspring.org)
The Loan Fund loan ranges and recent rate context (6.0–7.5% mentioned in 12/12/2024 board minutes). (loanfund.org, nmsbic.org)
SBA Microloan rules (≤$50,000, up to 7 years, 8–13% typical). SBA 7(a) and 504 loan limits and guarantees. (sba.gov)
NMFA SSBCI Capital Access & Loan Participation (loan amounts $10, 000-$ 1,500,000, up to 14% reserve match). (nmfinance.com)
NMSBIC capital and impact ($120M+, 7,200+ loans). (nmsbic.org)
APEX Accelerator contact and services. (nmapexaccelerator.org)
WOSB and HUBZone certification details (benefits, qualifications, maps). (sba.gov)
DBE (NMDOT contact 505-670-3294) and ABQ DBE goal (4.5%). (dot.nm.gov, cabq.gov)
NM SOS LLC filing fee ($50 per statute) and portal info. (law.justia.com, sos.nm.gov)
City of Albuquerque business license ( $35**) and Fire & Life Safety fee schedule (**$ 35– $400 * *) . * * L a s C r u ces * * re g i s t r a t i o n (* *$ 30–$40). (cabq.gov, lascruces.gov)
TRD GRT overview and Rate Finder. (tax.newmexico.gov)
Resident Business/Resident Veteran preference (8% / 10%). (tax.newmexico.gov)
ECECD Child Care Assistance (eligibility up to 400% FPL, copays waived, 10‑day processing). (nmececd.org)
RDC Micro‑Grant Fund (up to $3,000; 2025 season). (rdcnm.org)
NM FAST contacts and services. (arrowheadcenter.org, arrowheadcenter.nmsu.edu)

If you find an error or a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll fix it quickly.

🏛️More New Mexico Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in New Mexico